"Dr. Cortés takes you on a soul-searching course for
equitable, inclusive educational approaches to tell accurately and honestly the multidimensional story of the American experience. Compelling and witty, this book is a must read for anyone who wants to make a difference in schools and their communities."—Ricardo L. García, University of Nebraska

"With its creative synthesis of autobiography and exposition, this book shows a prolific author 'walking his talk'. Carlos Cortés has said 'yes' to every opportunity for professional growth in the multicultural field, and we should also say 'yes' to this extraordinary offering of his insight."—Milton J. Bennett, Director, The Intercultural Communication Institute

"In his conversational and exuberant way, Carlos Cortés offers us an affirming message after the September 11 horror—diversity is not to be feared but rather to be embraced, for as Americans we personify the peoples of the world. The essays attached to his life story concretely illustrate the practices of this master teacher of multicultural education."—Ronald Takaki, author of A Different Mirror: A History of Multicultural America

Carlos Cortés has been a first-hand observer and participant in the growth of multiculturalism and multicultural education from their birth in the social movements of the 1960s to the present day. In this unique collection of essays about diversity, society, and education, he provides readers with valuable insights, both from his own life story and from some of the most thought-provoking articles he has written over the past three decades. In many ways, Cortés's personal and professional story is the story of the multicultural movement itself, and this volume gives witness to the struggles and successes that Cortés and many others have experienced while striving to create a place for the voices, values, and visions of racial and ethnic groups in our culturally diverse nation and shrinking world.

This one-of-a-kind reflective history:

Examines the evolving nature of multiculturalism and multicultural education as a dynamic and interactive process.

Features the perspective of a historian who has participated in the multicultural education movement.

Urges readers to reflect on their own lives, careers,
and efforts to meet the challenges and opportunities of our increasingly diverse society.

Helps educators examine their own reasons for participating in the struggle to build a better multicultural future for our children.

Carlos E. Cortés is a Professor Emeritus of History at the University of California, Riverside.